The Hurricanes have received some positive news in a tough season, with three players re-signing with the club.
Former All Blacks wing Julian Savea and ultra-consistent loose forward Reed Prinsep have extended their time with the side for the next two seasons, while impressive lock Scott Scrafton has committed for at least another year.
Savea made his debut for the Hurricanes way back in 2011 and returned to New Zealand last year, after three seasons in France.
'The Bus' has grabbed his first try of the season in the heartbreaking golden-point loss to the Crusaders on Sunday, but his extension will add much-needed depth to the backline.
With talks of TJ Perenara leaving to join Sydney Roosters in the NRL and Ngani Laumape also looking overseas, retaining a player of Savea’s experience and skill is crucial for the Wellington-based franchise.
The 31-year-old is now the second-highest capped Hurricanes player (along with midfield legends Conrad Smith and Ma’a Nonu) with 126 caps, behind only former captain Perenara on 140 appearances.
Savea has scored 53 tries for the Hurricanes, alongside his 46 tries for the All Blacks during his 54-test career.
NZ Māori All Blacks loose forward Reed Prinsep will extend his stay at the club to six years, after first joining in 2017.
The 28-year-old has pulled on the 'Canes jersey 60 times, and has become a consistent figure in the run-on side through determined work rate and physicality.
Two-metre tall lock Scott Scrafton will also continue his time in the capital, after shifting south from the Blues.
The 28-year-old, who represented the New Zealand U20 team in 2013, has played 17 matches for the Hurricanes.
Scrafton is a key lineout forward with his size a real advantage and he has developed his game since joining the Hurricanes to mature into one of the best second-row forwards in the country.
Hurricanes head coach Jason Holland emphasises the importance of locking in experienced players, as the Super Rugby format continues to develop into the future.
"All three players have shown just what it means to them to play for the Hurricanes and they continue to make a significant impact on our club," Holland says.
"Our coaching group knows the importance of having good leaders in the mix to help bring the next crop of quality Hurricanes players through, so we're delighted these players have shown their desire to continue with us."
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